We've picked Grizedale forest specifically for its Beauty but also because of the Terrain and Environment that it offers. Let's break that down for you.

Beauty - Grizedale Forest is stunning. That's it. It's simply amazing.

Terrain - It's mixed with some steep and in places, technical* climbs (you'll never need to use all fours - it's not crazy technical) but steep enough to require many to walk, rather than run. There's a good amount of 3m wide forest gravel roads but there are also sections of rocky single track, up and down. The weather will play its part too and could make one section boggy if we get some unseasonal weather. Both races have been designed to offer participants challenging runnable trails that are interesting lap after lap.

Environment - Grizedale feels wild and remote but with its low altitude (the highest part of the race reaches 230m) and with easy vehicle access, as far as ultra trails go, particiapnts are never really exposed to the challenges that high mountain races present.

We feel that the combination of the Beauty, the Terrain and the Environment make Ultra Trail - Grizedale a brilliant option for seasoned Ultra Trail veterans wanting to push their boundaries and those wanting to explore more demanding terrain and distances before moving into more committing environments.

Understanding Technical* Terrain

Technical running terrain includes rugged and uneven surfaces that demands skill, agility, and constant focus from the runner. It includes obstacles like rocks, roots, and streams, and features steep, challenging climbs and descents. Running on this terrain requires precise foot placement, quick reactions, and a higher degree of mental concentration to navigate safely and efficiently.